Rajah Caruth, NASCAR, Twenty Four Foundation, GM Motorsports, Built Different: The STEM Accelerator — photo credit: wikkimedia

by Edwian Stokes

August 10, 2026

‘Built Different’ STEM Accelerator Leverages Motorsports To Advance Workforce Development for Black Youth

The Twenty Four Foundation, GM Motorsports, and Clayton County partnered to launch an AI and engineering initiative inspired by NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth.

The Twenty Four Foundation, with GM Motorsports and local government leaders, launched “Built Different: The STEM Accelerator,” a workforce development initiative connecting underserved youth to careers in engineering, artificial intelligence, technology, and data science through professional motorsports.

Developed by Seven & Grace with GM Motorsports, the program launches in Atlanta and Richmond, Virginia, through local nonprofit partners. In Georgia, the Clayton County Office of Digital Equity leads a six-week summer cohort for 10 local students, combining classroom instruction with practical experience. Students are selected through an open application process where families apply via their school, regional community centers, or the Clayton County Office of Digital Equity website. Applicants must show interest in STEM fields and commit to the full program. Details and deadlines are shared with schools and community organizations each spring.

Driving Financial Empowerment Through High-Tech Careers

Built Different is a strategic platform for early workforce development and financial empowerment. High-growth technical sectors like artificial intelligence, motorsports engineering, and data analytics have presented barriers for African Americans. By connecting Black youth with corporate engineers and advanced technology, the program creates sustainable pathways into high-earning technical careers.

NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth serves as this effort’s primary proof of concept. An Atlanta native, Caruth transformed virtual sim racing on iRacing into a professional career as a NASCAR national series winner through NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program. His journey forms the foundation of the program’s flagship curriculum, “How STEM Leads to Speed: Racing with Rajah.”

The curriculum offers four modules for middle school students and an expanded five-module track for high school and college students. Courses are taught by motorsports professionals, including General Motors software engineers, pit crew tire specialists, and NASCAR graphic designers.

Cutting-Edge Tools and National Expansion

Students use advanced industry technology. GM Motorsports provides platforms used in elite competition, such as the Pit Rho machine-learning strategy platform and Race Vehicle Simulation software. Microsoft supplies AI tools, including Copilot and Designer, giving participants hands-on experience with the software that supports Caruth’s racing operations.

“This program shows that STEM is more than classroom subjects,” said Takiyah J. Thomas, administrator of the Clayton County Office of Digital Equity. “It is the engine behind innovation, technology, and many career opportunities.” Clayton County, the only county government in Georgia with a dedicated Office of Digital Equity, aims to prepare residents for emerging technology careers.

Each partner organization receives a comprehensive STEM toolkit for year-round instruction alongside classroom learning. Students also join VIP race weekend experiences. Atlanta participants visited the EchoPark Speedway during the Quaker State 400 (July 11 and 12), and Richmond students will attend the Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway on Aug 14 and 15.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of motorsports is the opportunity to share the technologies, engineering practices, and lessons learned from competition with broader communities,” said TaiJaune Robinson, engineering business manager at GM Motorsports. “Through programs like this, we can help students better understand how innovation happens, how teams solve complex challenges under pressure, and how STEM skills can create opportunities both within motorsports and across the automotive industry.”

According to release details, plans are in progress to expand Built Different into additional NASCAR markets nationwide beginning in 2027. The Twenty Four Foundation is seeking corporate, philanthropic, and community partners to sponsor future student cohorts and provide long-term financial empowerment for youth across the country.

IRS,First Time Abate, Automatic Exemption from Penalty program — Photo by Karolina Grabowska/Pexels)

by Sidnee Michelle

August 10, 2026

IRS Rolls Out Automatic Tax Penalty Relief For Small Businesses

The Automatic Exemption from Penalty program, or AEP, is expected to launch this summer, and replace the agency's First Time Abate process.

The IRS is introducing an automatic penalty-relief program that could provide financial relief to eligible small businesses that miss certain tax deadlines despite a history of compliance, Forbes reports.

The Automatic Exemption from Penalty program, or AEP, is expected to launch later this summer and replace the agency’s First Time Abate process, according to the outlet. The program will apply beginning with the 2025 tax period and 2026 quarterly returns, as well as future tax periods.

The change comes as many small-business owners operate with limited financial reserves. A survey found that 39% of small-business owners had less than one month of operating expenses on hand. Another 51.3% said they would tap emergency reserves within 48 hours to make payroll before paying upcoming taxes or covering an unexpected large order.

Such limited reserves can leave businesses vulnerable when natural disasters, illnesses, or other emergencies disrupt operations and make it difficult to meet tax obligations.

Under the IRS’ First Time Abate process, eligible taxpayers generally had to request penalty relief. AEP will instead automatically provide relief from certain failure-to-file, failure-to-pay, and failure-to-deposit penalties to taxpayers who meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

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Taxpayers generally must have filed required returns and paid their taxes on time for the previous three years, or 12 consecutive quarters for quarterly filers. Businesses face an additional requirement: The IRS cannot have waived a failure-to-deposit penalty four or more times during the previous three years or 12 consecutive quarters.

When AEP applies, the IRS will send the taxpayer a letter explaining that an otherwise applicable penalty was not assessed because of the taxpayer’s compliance history. Those who believe they qualified but did not receive relief can contact the IRS.

The program does not eliminate the underlying tax obligation. Businesses must still pay any unpaid taxes, interest, and penalties not covered by AEP.

For small-business owners facing temporary financial disruptions, the new system could make penalty relief more accessible by applying it automatically to eligible taxpayers rather than requiring them to request it.

Lakers, Metta world peace, cal state — Photo credit: Lakers vs Heat, Christmas Day, 2010. Bridget Samuels

by Edwian Stokes

August 10, 2026

NBA Champs Metta World Peace And Michael Cooper Take Leadership Roles At Cal State LA

Two former Los Angeles Lakers champions will boost the university’s Division II athletics brand.

California State University, Los Angeles has strengthened its athletic department by appointing former Lakers forward Metta World Peace as associate head coach for women’s basketball. He joins Michael Cooper, who now leads the men’s basketball program as head coach.

The addition of these championship-caliber leaders at Cal State LA sets a standard for institutional advancement. By attracting top professional talent, the university aims to strengthen student-athlete leadership, expand corporate partnerships, and increase donor engagement in East Los Angeles.

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Executive Leadership On and Off the Court

World Peace, formerly Ron Artest, was introduced in a joint Instagram announcement on July 18 by the university and coach. A key contributor to the Lakers’ 2010 NBA championship, he brings professional skill and a commitment to mental health advocacy to a Golden Eagles team that finished 24-7 last season and won the California Collegiate Athletic Association tournament.

“From Queensbridge, New York to Los Angeles, CA. From NBA Champion to CCAA Tournament Champion. Moment of silence for the champions,” World Peace stated in the post, stressing his journey and devotion to high-level performance.

World Peace joins head coach Torino Johnson’s staff after serving as a player development coach for the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G League, according to Yahoo Sports. His appointment strengthens the women’s program and supports recruiting top student-athletes.

On the men’s side, Cooper was promoted to head coach on April 8 after serving as associate head coach since the 2023-2024 season. A five-time NBA champion and three-time champion head coach in the WNBA and G League, Cooper views his role as an opportunity to develop future leaders on and off the court.

Michael Cooper named Head Basketball Coach at Cal State LAhttps://t.co/KxvsdwF3W7
— HoopDirt.com (@HoopDirt) April 9, 2026

“Our mission at Cal State LA is to build leaders, build belief, and show what Cal State LA stands for,” Cooper said during his introductory press conference, according to official coverage from Cal State LA Athletics. “Cal State LA represents the heart of this great city with its hard-working, diverse, and ambitious student-athletes. We’re going to build a program that will make the university proud of us.”

Building Brand Equity and Community Impact

Hiring prominent figures like Cooper and World Peace supports the university’s long-term fundraising and brand-building efforts. At the press conference, when former Lakers teammate A.C. Green asked how alumni and supporters could help, Cooper responded simply: “Open your pocketbook.”

“We need to raise money for our programs,” Cooper said, outlining his organizational priorities in statements tracked by X Corp media reports. “We need to get in the community and build relationships, get more fans in the stands, and create more awareness for Cal State LA.”

Cal State LA President Berenecea Johnson Eanes emphasized that Cooper’s strong community ties bring authentic executive leadership to the student body. Cooper’s operational approach is based on core principles he calls the “Five D’s”: determination, dedication, desire, discipline, and decision-making.

“Those can apply to anything you do in your athletic endeavors,” Cooper said, “but you can make those Five D’s work for you off the court—in your everyday life, in your religious life, anything you want to be successful in.”

Housing market, Gen z, equities, wealth building, homeownership — (Photo: gopixa/Getty Images)

by Sidnee Michelle

August 10, 2026

Gen Z And Millennials Are Betting On Stocks As Homeownership Slips Away

Americans younger than 40 now hold a record $3.09 trillion in stocks.

Americans younger than 40 now hold a record $3.09 trillion in stocks as soaring home prices push more Gen Z and millennial investors to view brokerage accounts and stocks as a stepping stone to wealth, while homeownership becomes increasingly difficult to achieve, Fortune reports.

Federal Reserve data shows equities now account for 27% of the net worth of households under 40, the highest share since the central bank began tracking the data in 1989. The shift reflects growing housing affordability challenges that are forcing many younger Americans to rethink how they build long-term wealth.

Home prices have climbed roughly 235% since January 2000, according to the outlet, while fewer than half of Gen Z and millennial households can afford to purchase a home. The median age of a first-time homebuyer also increased from 28 in 1992 to 40 in 2025.

“For younger adults who despair about ever being able to buy a home, investing in financial markets can be a great way to save until they can afford one,” Chen Zhao, Redfin’s head of economics research, told the outlet.

The financial pressures are already reshaping behavior. Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 Planning & Progress Study found that 31% of Gen Z adults have delayed buying a home because of financial constraints, while 34% worry homeownership isn’t a reality for them. More than half of millennials also report having to choose between saving for retirement and purchasing a home.

George Eckerd, research director for wealth and markets at the JPMorganChase Institute, told Fortune that rising stock ownership represents a significant shift in how younger Americans are accumulating wealth. A 2025 Redfin survey found 1 in 5 Gen Z and millennial homebuyers sold stock investments to help finance a down payment, roughly double the share of baby boomers.

Financial advisers caution, however, that equities should complement—not replace—a long-term financial plan. Douglas Boneparth, president of Bone Fide Wealth, warned that some younger investors frustrated by the housing market may pursue higher-risk investments, including meme stocks, cryptocurrency, and leveraged trades, instead of diversified portfolios.

The trend also highlights persistent wealth disparities. Eckerd’s research found that lower-income households and Black communities often enter both the housing and stock markets later in economic cycles, limiting their ability to benefit from long-term asset appreciation even as investing becomes more accessible through digital platforms.

Robert L. Johnson’s Business Strategy Created Multigenerational Wealth For Employees

by Kenneth Meeks

August 10, 2026

Robert L. Johnson’s Business Strategy Created Multigenerational Wealth For Employees

Former BET Founder Bob Johnson single-handedly created the largest number of African American millionaires in the history of Black business.

Robert L. Johnson made history in several ways, but none have touched the lives of our community more than his greatest achievement. He is the country’s first African American billionaire and is responsible for more Blacks becoming millionaires than any other person in the history of this country. Black Entertainment Television, the company Johnson founded in 1980, also made history as the first Black company to be listed on the NYSE. Since selling BET to Viacom in 2001, Johnson has embarked on his “second act.” And along the way, he continues to build multigenerational wealth for his employees. He’s founder and chairman of The RLJ Companies and is the only CEO in the history of BLACK ENTERPRISE to have three companies on the BE 100s, a listing of the nation’s largest Black-owned companies. As we approach the 10^th anniversary of the XCEL Summit for Men, Johnson will be honored this year with an XCEL Award. A long-time friend of BE, we revisit his conversation with CEO Earl “Butch” Graves, Jr., when he detailed his strategy that made those employees millionaires 25 years ago. Click on the video below and hear directly how you can follow in his footsteps to bring wealth to your community and the people you work with. You might become a billionaire in the process.

LeBron James, Philadelphia 76ers, — Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

by Edwian Stokes

August 9, 2026

LeBron James’ 76ers Contract Highlights Black Financial Empowerment and Economic Influence

LeBron James' move to the Philadelphia 76ers on a veteran's minimum contract highlights how Black athlete-entrepreneurs leverage individual brand equity.

LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion, signed a two-year veteran’s minimum contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. While this contract is a significant pay cut, it highlights the growing influence of Black athletes who use their personal equity to impact metropolitan economies.

James’ decision provides an example of financial empowerment for African American business leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs. By valuing his influence beyond a traditional salary, he shows how Black talent can leverage their position to direct capital and gain economic control beyond standard employment agreements.

Basketnews.com reports James will earn $3,876,529 for the 2026–27 season, with a player option for $4,070,355 in 2027–28. After earning $52.5 million last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, he declined an estimated $19.4 million market salary to focus on championship opportunities and strategy.

A Catalyst for Regional Commerce

A move to Philly is more than a blockbuster sports story—it reinforces one of America's premier sports and business markets, generates enormous media attention, fan engagement, tourism, and economic impact. The Boyd Co. knows that the biggest location decisions—whether made by… pic.twitter.com/2IYmhM3tXX
— The Boyd Company, Inc. (@TheBoydCompany) July 25, 2026

A study by The Boyd Company estimates James’ arrival will generate $250 million to $430 million in regional economic activity during his first season. Growth will come from higher ticket demand, increased hospitality spending, regional tourism, merchandise sales, and national media exposure. TickPick reported that entry-level ticket prices for Philadelphia’s preseason home opener rose from an average of $68 to $283 after the announcement.

“A move to Philly is more than a blockbuster sports story—it reinforces one of America’s premier sports and business markets, generates enormous media attention, fan engagement, tourism, and economic impact,” The Boyd Company stated on social media. “The biggest location decisions—whether made by Fortune 500 companies or superstar athletes—can reshape regional economies and propel a city’s national profile.”

The Model of Economic Empowerment

James’ financial footprint across major markets is thoroughly documented. During his second tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers, a Harvard University study cited by MPR News revealed that his presence boosted employment in downtown Cleveland by 24% and increased revenues at local eating and drinking establishments by 13% within a one-mile radius of the arena.

For Black business owners in Greater Philadelphia, especially in hospitality, event production, retail, and transportation, James’ move presents immediate opportunities. Increased foot traffic in commercial areas gives minority-owned suppliers greater access to corporate spending and tourism revenue.

Local organizations such as the African-American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, the Philadelphia Commerce Department’s Office of Economic Opportunity, and networks like Philly Black Businesses can connect entrepreneurs with new contracts, city grants, and business partnerships tied to this growth. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to use these resources and attend upcoming city-led workshops and networking events to capitalize on increased regional activity.

By prioritizing autonomy and long-term positioning over base salary, James not only demonstrates a modern approach to financial empowerment but also exemplifies how Black athletes can strategically leverage personal brand equity to influence broader economic systems.

Equifax, class action, settlement, Fair Credit Reporting Act — photo credit: Tyler Lahti, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

by Sidnee Michelle

August 9, 2026

Equifax Customers Could Claim Up To $600 In $2.2M Settlement

The case alleges Equifax violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Eligible Equifax customers have until Sept. 1, 2026, to file claims for a proposed $2.2 million class-action settlement over allegations that the credit reporting company inaccurately reported duplicate collection accounts, potentially affecting consumers’ credit scores and borrowing opportunities, CNET reports.

The proposed settlement stems from Bradberry v. Equifax Information Services LLC, a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. The case alleges Equifax violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act, a federal law requiring consumer reporting agencies to use reasonable procedures to ensure the accuracy of the information they provide.

According to the lawsuit, Equifax reported duplicate collection account tradelines on certain consumer credit reports issued between August and September 2022, making some consumers appear to owe more debt than they actually did. The alleged reporting errors may have affected some consumers’ ability to qualify for mortgages, credit cards, auto loans, and other financing.

The settlement class includes 37,651 consumers identified by Equifax as having received the affected credit reports. Eligible class members who submit valid claims by the Sept. 1 deadline may receive a payment of up to $600. Actual payments could be lower depending on the number of approved claims and the amount the court awards for attorneys’ fees and settlement administration.

Eligible class members also will receive six months of Equifax Complete credit monitoring, including access to credit reports, credit score monitoring, and up to $500,000 in identity theft insurance coverage.

The lawsuit was filed by plaintiff Charmayne Bradberry, who alleged Equifax reported the same $305 collection account twice, using different opening and reporting dates. According to the complaint, the duplicate reporting significantly lowered her credit score and may have affected her ability to obtain a mortgage.

Equifax denies the allegations and maintains it did not violate the law or harm consumers. The company agreed to the proposed settlement without admitting wrongdoing, and the court has not ruled on the merits of the claims.

A final approval hearing is scheduled for Oct. 6, 2026. To qualify, consumers must be U.S. residents or residents of U.S. territories who received an Equifax notification informing them they were part of the affected group.

Eligible class members must submit a claim online or by mail using the settlement identification number included in the notice. Consumers who wish to opt out of or object to the proposed settlement also must do so by Sept. 1, 2026.

Women’s Pro Baseball League, Mo'ne Davis, Los Angeles Queens, Hampton University — Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/baseball-bat-and-balls-on-a-bench-5184684/

by Edwian Stokes

August 9, 2026

Mo’ne Davis Drives Brand Equity And Leadership As Women’s Pro Baseball League Launches

From Little League standout to Columbia graduate, Davis joins the Los Angeles Queens in a landmark business initiative for women’s sports.

Eleven years after gaining national attention at the Little League World Series, Mo’ne Davis returns to professional athletics as a key figure in a pioneering sports business venture. At 24, Davis was selected 10th overall by the Los Angeles Queens in the inaugural Women’s Pro Baseball League draft, the only active professional women’s baseball organization in the United States. On Aug. 1, Davis etched her name into the record books by scoring the first run in WPBL history, pacing the Queens to a thrilling 10–8 victory over the New York Heights in the league’s inaugural game.

For Davis, who holds degrees from Hampton University and Columbia University, returning to baseball is a strategic career move. According to Little League World Series archives, she became nationally recognized in 2014 as the first girl to pitch a shutout in tournament history, delivering a 70-mph fastball for Philadelphia. After playing college softball at Hampton, where she posted a .225 batting average over two seasons, and spending several years away from the spotlight, she entered the WPBL draft to pursue new challenges on her terms.

“I just wanted to try it out,” Davis said from the warning track at Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield, Illinois. “I don’t like to go through life regretting anything. I want to make sure I can look back and be like, ‘Hey, I tried it out.'”

Davis is redefining her athletic brand by choosing not to pitch and focusing on field play and offensive skills. “No matter how many times anyone asks, the answer is gonna stay the same: I’m not pitching,” Davis stated. “I am doing what I want to do. I’m not doing what everyone else wants me to do. So whether you like it or not, I’m still gonna live my life, but I just want to show people, like, I’m gonna go out there and have fun.”

Building a Sustainable Enterprise in Women’s Sports

The WPBL represents a significant commercial expansion for women’s diamond sports, focusing on financial viability and operational growth. Co-founded by Justine Siegal, the first woman to coach in Major League Baseball, the four-team league includes the Los Angeles Queens, Boston Hunters, New York Heights, and San Francisco Firebells, all competing in Illinois. Setting a new precedent for professional sports, each team name celebrates the enduring legacy of a trailblazing woman.

To strengthen market credibility and executive leadership, the league appointed three-time World Series champion and former MLB general manager Dave Stewart as official advisor. The managerial roster features former MLB veterans Eric Young with Los Angeles, Matt Williams with San Francisco, Keith Foulke with Boston, and women’s baseball pioneer Rachelle “Rocky” Henley managing New York.

“We are thrilled to assemble a world-class group of leaders who can elevate the game and inspire the next generation of ballplayers,” Siegal said in an official league press release.

Negro League Roots and Brand Equity

Davis’s personal brand connects historic legacy with modern sports enterprise. Earlier this year, she signed with the Indianapolis Clowns of the Banana Ball League, according to team releases. The franchise honors the 1940s barnstorming Negro League team that featured trailblazer Toni Stone, the first female to play in professional men’s baseball. Mentored by former MLB center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr., Davis developed her sports business expertise and on-field skills during her time with the club.

Her involvement offers immediate commercial value to the WPBL. As a teenager, her marketability led to features on the cover of Sports Illustrated and Wheaties cereal boxes. Teammates recognize her visibility as an economic asset for the league.

“The exposure she’s gotten exposes us as well,” Queens outfielder Brittany Apagar said, acknowledging how high-profile branding benefits collective team valuations.

“I try to protect my peace,” Davis said. “I don’t want my teammates to look at me any differently. I want them to know I’m here to win games with you guys, and I’m here for the team.”

Serena Williams, Serena Ventures, Starfire Ventures — Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images

by Sidnee Michelle

August 8, 2026

Serena Williams Is Looking To Fund The Next Trillion-Dollar Company

The tennis legend rebranded her investment firm.

Serena Williams is betting that the next trillion-dollar company will emerge from entrepreneurs who have historically received little attention from traditional venture capital firms, Fast Company reports.

The tennis legend and entrepreneur said her newly rebranded investment firm, Starfire Ventures, is focused on identifying high-potential founders while expanding access to venture funding. Williams discussed the firm’s strategy during a live recording of the Rapid Response podcast at the Reckitt Catalyst event in Palm Beach, Florida.

The firm’s new name marks a shift from Williams’ original venture capital platform, Serena Ventures, reflecting what she described as a long-term investment business designed to grow beyond her personal brand.

“I wanted it to be bigger than me,” Williams said. “I wanted it to be about the team.”

Williams said Starfire Ventures has invested in 16 companies that later achieved unicorn status, underscoring the firm’s emphasis on identifying startups with significant growth potential. She added that while data and due diligence remain essential, instinct also plays a major role in evaluating founders and business ideas.

The firm’s investment strategy continues to prioritize women and underrepresented entrepreneurs, a segment of the startup ecosystem that has historically received a small share of venture capital funding, according to PitchBook.

“We are only investing in winners,” Williams said. “If we don’t feel the company is going to return our fund, we’re not going to invest in them.”

Williams said expanding access to different founder networks is a competitive advantage rather than a charitable initiative, arguing that many investors overlook promising businesses because they repeatedly source deals from the same circles.

“We’re thinking about the next billion-dollar company, the next trillion-dollar company, and how to be on those cap tables as well,” she said.

Although Williams retired from professional tennis in 2022, she said venture investing now occupies most of her professional life as she continues building a portfolio of companies positioned for long-term growth.